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Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody (serum/plasma) – Immunoassay

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium that can cause respiratory infections like pneumonia. Antibodies indicate past or potential exposure.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess if you’ve been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci* and may guide further evaluation for infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31307-2
Short code
C psittaci IgG CSF-aCnc
Synonyms
C psittaci IgG CSF-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects IgG antibodies against *Chlamydia psittaci*, a type of bacteria that can cause illnesses like atypical pneumonia. These antibodies develop after your immune system has encountered the bacteria, either from infection or prior exposure. Unlike IgM antibodies (which appear earlier in acute infection), IgG antibodies persist longer and indicate past or ongoing immune response.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms like fever, cough, or respiratory distress that could suggest *Chlamydia psittaci* infection, especially after exposure to birds or contaminated environments. It’s also used in screening for occupational or travel-related risks.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result suggests you’ve likely been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci* at some point, meaning your immune system has produced these antibodies. However, a positive test alone doesn’t confirm an active infection—additional testing may be needed to diagnose current illness.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means your body currently lacks detectable IgG antibodies against *Chlamydia psittaci*, which could mean you’ve never been exposed or the test was taken too early after exposure. Follow-up testing may be advised if you suspect recent exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG Antibody to Chlamydia psittaci

Frequently asked questions

How soon after exposure might I get a positive result?
IgG antibodies typically develop within weeks to months after exposure. Acute IgM antibodies may appear first, but IgG testing is useful for detecting past exposure or chronic immune response. Results may take 3–5 business days to process.
Can this test be used to diagnose an active infection?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose an active *Chlamydia psittaci* infection. A positive result suggests exposure but requires clinical correlation with symptoms and possibly additional tests (e.g., PCR or culture) for confirmation.
What should I do if I have symptoms like pneumonia or respiratory illness?
If you develop symptoms after potential bird exposure or respiratory illness, consult your doctor. They may order additional tests (e.g., chest X-ray, culture) or recommend antibiotics if an infection is suspected. Never assume a positive antibody test means you need treatment without professional guidance.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy